Plastic is made for the outdoors: robust, easy to care for and available in lots of colours. Even so, rain, dust, pollen and daily use leave their mark over time. With the right cleaning, your garden chairs, tables and lounge furniture will stay looking good for years.
How to clean plastic garden furniture properly
For regular cleaning, all you usually need is lukewarm water with a mild detergent. First remove loose dirt, then clean the surface with a soft cloth or a soft brush. Rinse with clean water and leave to dry.
Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasives and hard brushes. They can damage the surface and leave small scratches where new dirt builds up more easily.
For stubborn stains, it's best to follow the manufacturer's care instructions and only use suitable cleaning products.
What to do about discoloured plastic
Sunlight and weather can change plastic over time. That's why many high-quality outdoor furniture pieces are UV-resistant or treated with UV stabilisers. However, complete protection against long-term colour changes isn't always possible.
If the plastic is discoloured or the surface has become dull, don't use oils or polishes on your own initiative. Whether special care products are suitable depends on the type of plastic.
Can plastic garden furniture stay outside?
Many pieces of plastic garden furniture are designed for permanent outdoor use. Even so, it's worth storing them somewhere dry and sheltered when you're not using them for a longer period.
Remove leaves and other dirt regularly and make sure water doesn't collect on the furniture for long periods. In winter, follow the recommendations of the manufacturer.
The key points at a glance
Clean your plastic garden furniture regularly with a mild detergent and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasives and pressure washers, and store the furniture somewhere sheltered if you won't be using it for a while.
That way, your garden furniture will be ready for many more summers.
